Monopolowa is a vodka made in Austria originated from Poland. It is distilled from potatoes. It scored a 94 at the 2003 International Review of Spirits, the highest score, tying with Stolichnaya, from Russia. It is produced under the brand of the pre-war Polish spirits producer J. A. Baczewski.
Monopolowa is a Polish language generic adjective referring to state monopoly. Nevertheless, this name refers to a privilege of the nobility. In the mid-17th century, a monopoly was granted to the szlachta on producing and selling vodka in their territories. (see History of the vodka in Poland)
Monopolowa is a distinctive potato vodka, produced of a traditional formula, imbued with a distinct intensity, smoothness, depth of flavor and complexity of character, all attributable to a “back-to-basics” tradition of being distilled from potatoes. (Vodka, native to Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, as well as Russia, was traditionally assumed to be made from potatoes. Presently, most other vodkas are produced from grain.)
Monopolowa was produced by J. A. Baczewski until the Second World War. After the war, the Austrian Gessler company bought the licence and the rights to production.
After Poland became a democratic country in 1989, the Starogard Gdański based branch of the Polmos company started to produce several of J.A. Baczewski's products under license from Altvater Gessler - J.A. Baczewski International (USA) Inc. However, in the late 1990s the license was terminated and production in Poland was halted.
Monopolowa has consistently scored top marks in awards and is attractive for consumers looking for a high quality product with a low price. In 2008 the independent Beverage Testing Institute has given Monopolowa a rating of 93 points out of 100, calling it "exceptional".
Tasting Notes
In a world of flavourless, overhyped grain vodkas and gins, Monopolowa triple distils potato spirits of infinite distinction. In head-to-head competitions against some of the world’s most recognized vodkas and gins, Monopolowa has repeatedly won Gold Medals and has been rated “Exceptional”, “Best Spirit” and “Best Value”. Be one of the first in Australia to enjoy these unique Austrian classics.
Vodka Monopolowa is well suited for mixed drinks of all kinds. Its rich texture and smoothness are further enhanced when served chilled with a twist of lemon.
Review
Gold Medal, Rating: 93 points (Exceptional)
“Clear. Mild aromas of buttercream, candied citrus peel and anise follow through on a round, silky entry to a dryish medium body with notes of banana taffy and minerals. Finishes with long, very smooth fade. A pristine, poised vodka for sipping neat or in martinis.” — Beverage Testing Institute, International Review of Spirits 2010
Awards
2010 The Beverage Testing Institute International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal. Rated: 93 points (Exceptional) & Best Buy
2009 The International Wine and Spirit Competition: Silver Medal
2009 San Francisco World Spirits Competition: Silver Medal
2008 The Beverage Testing Institute International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal. Rated: 92 points (Exceptional)
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